Mastermack0

Nolan Fever

2010-11-07T23:37:00.000-08:00

I've been watching all kinds of Christopher Nolan movies recently. You could say I have a fever. But that would silly as I am quite healthy.

My first Nolan movie was The Prestige. The reason I watched it? Fucking David Bowie. I went in looking for the Bowie. Couldn't find the bastard. It was only at the end, when the credits were rolling, I noticed he was Tesla. Sure enough, (after rewinding), he WAS Tesla. Damn bastard is a good actor.

2010, I saw Inception. It was thrilling and quite creative. A bit too much shooting for a psychological movie (batman had less shooting) but still AMAZING. But now I knew who Nolan was.

I have to admit: I had seen NONE of the batman movies. But I decided to get the famous "The Dark Knight" Movie. It was great. I recommend it to all, even if you dislike action. Then I saw Batman Begins. Also amazing, though I wish Scarecrow had more action.

I saw Insomnia last Tuesday. Another thrilling movie. Absolutely wonderful.

This leaves 2 more Nolan movies to see: Momento and ......I can't even remember anymore.

Lucifer and Biscuit Hammer Manga Review

2010-10-10T19:36:00.001-07:00

So, I finished this manga! It was a medium length manga so it didn't take too long. It IS completed, which I know is a huge incentive for people.

The genre is Fantasy, Shounen, Action, Adventure, and Romance. The story is, without revealing too much, about a boy who wakes up to a talking lizard. The lizard tells him that he is being conscripted to save the world from a magician who plans to destroy the world with a giant hammer. His other task is to protect the princess, who is currently possessing a classmate of his.

However, the boy and princess' host have a secret: They secretly want to destroy the world themselves! Thus, they must keep this secret from the other beast knights (like our protagonist) until the final moment!

That's the overview without getting into too much detail.

Story: 8.
Very good story, though a bit cliched. It has lots of twists and turns and is lots of fun. Definitely very exciting but not TOO exciting that it'd wear you out! Also, it isn't dragged out. In the end, I thought it could have gone longer. Overall, it was a very fun story.

Characters: 9
This is the shining point. EVERY CHARACTER (all 15 or so) are great and beautifully developed. I specially love the princess' host who seems to be an eviler force than the antagonist. I LOVE it! I love the feeling of servitude to an evil girl like her. As for the beast knights, everyone has a great backstory and great personality. Unfortunately, a few characters here and there don't really show up near the end. But the biggest fault is: I can't remember any of their names. It JUST doesn't seem to matter. You remember them by their animals.

Tidbits: 10
-great art
-lots of little interesting facts (like the Akimisic records, spear of longivus, etc)
-attractive storyline

Japanese Radio

2010-05-05T00:22:00.001-07:00

So on the night May 4th, 2010, Japan played a bunch of anime openings and closing. They had the VA for Sakura (CCS) and Shinji (Evangelion). I was banned from /a/ for posting this link but here the songs

I'll post a link here to download the songs presented.

Songs:

073. アナタノオト / ランカ・リー（中島愛）[マクロスF]
072. 射手座☆午後九時 Don't be late / シェリル・ノーム（starring May'n）[マクロスF]
070. 愛・おぼえていますか / ミレーヌ‧ジーナス（櫻井智）[マクロス7]
070. ...だけどベイビー!! / ミレーヌ‧ジーナス（Chie Kajiura）[マクロス7]
069. 天使の絵の具 / リン・ミンメイ（飯島真理） [超時空要塞マクロス　愛・おぼえていますか]

068. ラムのラブソング / 松谷祐子 [うる星やつら]
067. 愛をとりもどせ!! / クリスタルキング [世紀末救世主伝説北斗の拳]
066. CAT'S EYE / 杏里 [キャッツ・アイ]
065. 摩訶不思議アドベンチャー！ / 高橋洋樹 [ドラゴンボール]
064. タッチ / 岩崎良美 [タッチ]
063. 私はマチコ / 今田裕子 [まいっちんぐマチコ先生]
062. 恋は突然 / 堀江美都子 [愛してナイト]
061. 炎のさだめ / TETSU [装甲騎兵ボトムズ]
060. ゆずれない願い / 田村直美 [魔法騎士レイアース]
059. ブルーウォーター / 森川美穂 [ふしぎの海のナディア]
058. おじゃまんが山田くん / こおろぎ'73 [おじゃまんが山田くん]
057. エッちゃん / 増山江威子 [さるとびエッちゃん]
056. やるぞ一発！野球道 / 千葉由美、ヤング・フレッシュ、こおろぎ'73 [一発貫太くん]
055. Beautiful World / 宇多田ヒカル [ヱヴァンゲリヲン新劇場版：序]
054. 魂のルフラン / 高橋洋子 [新世紀エヴァンゲリオン劇場版　シト新生]
053. 残酷な天使のテーゼ / 高橋洋子 [新世紀エヴァンゲリオン]
052. My Secret / 水野佐彩 [会長はメイド様]
051. 氷の上に立つように / 小松未歩 [名探偵コナン]
050. ときめきトゥナイト / 加茂晴美 [ときめきトゥナイト]
049. 夢色チェイサー / 鮎川麻弥 [機甲戦記ドラグナー]
048. ガリアン・ワールド -Run For Your Life- / EUROX [機甲界ガリアン]
047. 失われた伝説（ゆめ）をもとめて / アンディ [機甲創世記モスピーダ]
046. Agape / メロキュア [円盤皇女ワるきゅーレ]
045. すきすきソング / 水森亜土 [ひみつのアッコちゃん]
044. ゲゲゲの鬼太郎 / 熊倉一雄 [ゲゲゲの鬼太郎]
043. ハクション大魔王の歌 / 嶋崎由理 [ハクション大魔王]
042. アンパンマンのマーチ / ドリーミング [それいけ！アンパンマン]
041. 宇宙大シャッフル / LOVE JETS [ちびまる子ちゃん]

]

040. 冒険でしょでしょ？ / 平野綾 [涼宮ハルヒの憂鬱]
039. 銀河鉄道は遥かなり / ささきいさお [銀河鉄道物語]
038. 盗んだハートはココですよ？ / 小倉唯 with ぷるぷるいゃ〜ん [怪盗レーニャ]
037. 千本千女の刃毬唄 / 畑亜貴 [刀語]
036. 鳥の詩 / Lia [AIR]
035. My Soul, Your Beats! / Lia [Angel Beats!]
034. DAYBREAK'S BELL / L'Arc〜‎en〜‎Ciel [機動戦士ガンダム00]
033. 焔の扉 / FictionJunction YUUKA [機動戦士ガンダムSEED DESTINY]
032. DREAMS / ROMANTIC MODE [機動新世紀ガンダムX]
031. JUST COMMUNICATION / TWO-MIX [新機動戦記ガンダムW]
030. FLYING IN THE SKY / 鵜島仁文 [機動武闘伝Ｇガンダム]
029. STAND UP TO THE VICTORY 〜トゥ・ザ・ヴィクトリー〜 / 川添智久 [機動戦士Vガンダム]
028. 勇者王誕生！ / 遠藤正明 [勇者王ガオガイガー]
027. ゲームセンターあらし / 水木一郎 [ゲームセンターあらし]
026. 君の知らない物語 / supercell [化物語]
025. 溝ノ口太陽族 / manzo [天体戦士サンレッド]
024. 深愛 / 水樹奈々 [WHITE ALBUM]
023. 魔法使いサリー / スリーグレイセス [魔法使いサリー]
022. 行け！タイガーマスク / 新田洋・スクールメイツ [タイガーマスク]
021. アタックNO.1 / 大杉久美子 [アタックNO.1]
020. ゆけゆけ飛雄馬 / アンサンブル・ボッカ [巨人の星]
019. 鉄腕アトム / 上高田少年合唱団 [鉄腕アトム]
018. キン肉マンGo Fight! / 串田アキラ [キン肉マン]
017. Glossy:MMM / 橋本みゆき [咲 -Saki-]
016. デリケートに好きして / 太田貴子 [魔法の天使クリィミーマミ]
015. バカ・ゴー・ホーム / milktub [バカとテストと召喚獣]
014. Faze to love / 橋本みゆき [ガンパレード・オーケストラ]
013. STORIES / 喜多修平 [ミラクル☆トレイン〜大江戸線へようこそ〜]
012. 夢光年 / 影山ヒロノブ、こおろぎ'73 [宇宙船サジタリウス]
011. Breakin' through / 喜多修平 [PERSONA - trinity soul -]
010. ミッドナイト・サブマリン / HARRY [未来警察ウラシマン]
009. ヤッターマンの歌 / 山本正之、少年少女合唱団みずうみ [ヤッターマン]
008. 鉄人28号 / デューク・エイセス [鉄人28号]
007. ワンダースリー / ボーカル・ショップ [W3（ワンダースリー）]
006. 狼少年ケン / 西六郷少年少女合唱団 [狼少年ケン]
005. できるかなって☆☆☆ / ゆの（阿澄佳奈）,宮子（水橋かおり）、ヒロ（後藤邑子）、沙英（新谷良子） [ひだまりスケッチ×☆☆☆]
004. 忍者ハットリくん / 堀絢子、コロムビアゆりかご [忍者ハットリくん]
003. Step / a・chi-a・chi [魔神英雄伝ワタル]
002. がんばれドカベン / こおろぎ'73 [ドカベン]
001. オラはにんきもの / のはらしんのすけ [クレヨンしんちゃん]

Austin Powers and Caddyshack

2010-04-15T15:51:00.000-07:00

A quick review of the 3 Austin Powers movies (before the 4th comes out):
-International man: 8
-Spy who shagged me: 6
-Goldmember: 8

Yes, the second one is the worst. The first had a good story and third one is hilarious with good references. Second one has the best girl. All of them have the best music.

Caddyshack is a great movie: good music, great humor, great character. Very rewatchable

Ghost Stories

2010-01-21T20:53:00.000-08:00

Ah, one of the few good english dubbed anime.

Basically, in 2001, Japan made a horror anime series starring a bunch of... high schoolers (?). It sucked and ripped off horror films. So when it came to america, ADV made it into a parody anime, rewriting (more like destroying) the entire script. Now its anime with pop culture reference, crude humor, and 4th wall smashing.

Its AWESOME. Funny, clever, and a totally endearing. While the first 2 episodes are quite lame, after that, they are all good (save MAYBE 1 or 2 episodes here and there). The characters are great, the music is great (stolen from Inuyasha, I swear), and the games are grand.

Welcome to the NHK

2009-08-01T22:49:00.001-07:00

My, what a powerful anime.

Starring Satou, a useless guy who doesn't work or go to school, we have a tale of all the crazy stuff he does. But what makes this interesting is that its a depressing comedy; a tragedy if you will though it is unclear if it has a tragic end at all.

Now, I feel this is a DEFINITE must see among anime viewers or anyone. It is a sobering tale, showing the hardships of lives, subcultures, and dangers taht everyone faces. While it keeps the humor up and mixes in a little romance, its a realistic story that should teach you a bit more about our world and the people who live in it. Very good!

Of course, there is an element of mystery behind the 'angel who wants to save' Satou. Who is she? Is she good? Why does she want to help? How does she know so much about Satou?

random notes (skip):
Welcome to the NHK, episode 4; sky girls poster in the back at 17:28
Welcome to the nhk episde 5- I’m surprisingly a huge fan of this particular episode. It was funny with the freud piece
Welcome to nhk episode 7, at 17:00 they start playing the song (has lyrics thus)
8- she dresses up so cute. GREAT END; THEY ALMOST KISS

episode 9 of nhk:so depressing about yamazaki. 21 begins cuteness and a song
10: at 4, funny faces. Around 7;55, MEOW. Him stalking her has good music
Feel that NHK ni Yokoso is VERY well written. Makes you question what Satou should do with Misaki: She could hurt him and make him a hikikomori forever. Stop seeing her then? Perhaps Misaki is a lonely girl who just wants a friend and saw satou kun a lot from her room.
11- VERY POWERFUL episode (the end with misaki at least)

12- 4:23, I’m scared shitless. I mean, weird people and people say this episode proves its not comedy. 20:10 is so AWWW worthy.
13-aww, its so sad and good. But the very end is touching on how everyone cries
14- nice song at 16 or a bit before
15- 17:14 HEALER

Nhk 16- 5:30, Misaki meows. Mia is hot but the episode brings a nice lesson
Nhk 17: 16:30, the way people talk about hikimoris is pretty kickass and makes you wonder why the world is so mean to them. Fuck up your president!
18- embarrassed misaki at 7:53. Minut before eyecatch, I’m raging because of the pres who is tricking them again
Nhk is very depressing but very realistic and shows you the truth behind life. Makes you an adult. Welcome to the NHK: a depressing look about subcultures and life in general. A must see for ALL adults even with its controversial topics such as lolicon, suicide, and scams.
Welcome to NHK episode 19- deep reasoning behind why people don’t change their lifestyles: scared. After eyecatch, interesting galge
20- OH SHIT. Yamazaki shows the chick all his galge and she says “baka” at 18:48. Its clear she likes him but he has to reject her since he might have to leave her in a mnth
22- at 9:35, I'm about to cry because Sempai's story is so sad but of course, it brightens up soon enough. But Misaki's story is sad too
23- at 9:35 or so, Satou reads the newest contract which surprised me! Heartbreaking choice. Oh god, the very end is so intense with Misaki going back to her hometown.
24- beginning as great music. 17:20 "i'll listen to anything, no matter how boring"- that's so 'aww' inspiring. but he trolls her with this Freudian dream. Cute end since Satou is teaching Misaki now

Princess Tutu

2009-06-18T11:55:00.001-07:00

I just finished a highly rated shoujo (mahou shoujo or magic girl to be exact) anime and it was pretty good. Its about a little duck who becomes a girl who becomes Princess tutu. That's TWO transformations in 1. For the most part, it runs slightly different from other mahou shojos. Unlike most where the entire plot is to collect items or to fight enemies over and over, this anime constantly pushes a plot, meaning missing one can seriously hinder the plot. However it DOES follow the typical shoujo plot a BIT: she DOES collect heart shards for half the anime and the other half she repeats the same "save this person" drama. But what makes this acceptable is:
1. Its all a ballet: She fights by dancing
2. She only does this copypasting drama for... maybe 5 times... and it always ties in to advancing the plot.
3. There is a great inner struggle in all the characters

And the most interesting part of Princess Tutu anime is that THE ENTIRE ANIME IS A BALLET. the music is ballet, the plot is set up like a ballet would be (you probably can guess the end; especially if you know how REAL fairy tales tend to end), and the themes are of a ballet.

Random notes:
Princess tutu 6- its intense. There are negative consequences for returning his heart. Is it right to bring him back to normal? Very interesting and awesome. Brings up the question of “does he really need his heart if only makes him suffer?” Wow, reaching epic so soon.
Princess tutu 7- clearly a very deep example of magical girl
8- fakira was so nice 11:00. 18:20, fakir is so badass. 19:30 HOLY SHIT, just llike a real ballet, it has such intense themes like stabbing oneself’s heart. A real ballet : can’t tell her emotions, stabbing eachself, battles of emotions
Princess tut 10- 15:17 AWWWW, Fakira hugs the duck. 21:07 is pretty funny with fakira and ahoge
12- at 6:58, Fakira smiles at Duck, so cute. 17:18 Duck panties!. Oh god, naked duck is great, watch until 19
princess tutu 13- end of season 1, beginning of season 2
14- Mute’s smile at 7 is so cute
15- at 21, peka’s hair is cute
16- freiya is cute
20- at 17, dark muteo is great
21- at 7:30 or so, the cat jumps into the bag. 18:17:F UCK YEAH, that kid got blown away
23- at 15:30, the prince is so badass
24- the bird muteo is great 15:30 or later

Code Geass (season 1 and season 2)

2009-06-16T12:30:00.000-07:00

A very interesting anime. Its thriller drama but with mecha as well. Even if you dislike Mecha that is ignorable (much like Gurren Lagann was if you just look at the bromance). And like Gurren Lagann, it had a great soundtrack. Season 1 had a great finale and so did season 2 though people are still debating over its end.

CG was similar to death note:
-needing to keep your cover
-making a better world
-debate over what's right
-mystical power (with rules)

Now for some random memories (You can ignore these):

code geass 1- last sentence was pretty badass. He’s moping and then turns it around
Code geass 3- death note like strategy. 16: 35, naked kallen= SO HOT
code geass 5- 10:30, “what are you doing?” “what indeed”
code geasss 15- 10:27, Leulouch’s attempt to get CC to stay is so cute. 13:19 or so, flashback has a great atmosphere with music. Pretty good episode with badassery, a brillant end (it seems the tables will turn but they don’t!)
code geass 16- at 5, that earl dude is so cool. But oh my god, the way he beat Mao is GENIUS
CG 25- GREAT FINALE
code geasss r2, episode 3- at 13, naked Kallen is amazing
Code geass r2 episode 13- its been so long and this episode blew me away with its awesomeness
Cg r2 episode 16- cc is SO cute and ilove how lelouch is so nice to her. Watching her )19:30 and such) is great!
code geass r2 19- at 21, the infamous suzaku laugh
20- 19:21 OH GOD LELOUCH IS SO COOL
21- 20:40, Suzaku knocking out the guards and Lelouch taking emperor’s chair WAS AMAZING
code geass r2 25- 8:20 DID ORANGE JUST LEAP ONTO A ROBOT! SO BADASS. Great end by the way. Hilarious that Orange works on an orange plantation

Power of media

2009-06-16T12:29:00.001-07:00

Watching a movie or TV CAN influence people. Violent games or shows can make a kid pretend to wield a gun. Heck, even I want to do sign language after "Children of a lesser god" or to dance ballet after Princess Tutu.

K-ON series review

2009-06-11T15:52:00.001-07:00

K-ON is another slice of life anime but this one with a music basis. Unlike with Lucky Star, there is no Haruhi promotions and no parodies of other series. This is beneficial to K-ON which is decent because of it.

Okay opening but GREAT ending song. In fact, after a pretty bad first episode, its the ending that gives a watcher the energy to watch episode 2 and so on. For the most part, the ending also is the reason for the creation of the fanbase for the only rational character in K-ON: Mio. In fact, I am a large fan of Mio and have collected about 300 pictures of her (wow, that's pretty sad).

Now for a review of the series: It's good.... with exceptions.
Its okay for the first 3 episodes but episode 4-8 and great and they even play a great song episode 8. 9 and on (at this point, I've only seen up to episode 10 but have heard the synopsis for episode 11) are weakening. Perhaps episode 12, the last episode, will make this series a winner.

Its a good anime but forgettable other than for its 2 good songs (so far): Ending (Please don't say you are lazy) and episode 8's song (My love is a stapler).

Cardcaptor Sakura review

2009-04-21T07:51:00.000-07:00

An amazing anime from the 90's. It is truly a must see in the anime world, and no, you don't have to be a lolicon to like it.

Great music, great art, great characters, funny, and nice story. While each episode is monster of the week, it does connect to the grand scheme of things. The characters are quite amazing, characters I thought I would hate only turned out to make me love them immensely. Yukito seems like such a fag (and he is) but he is fucking amazing.

I actually made little comments all throughout the series of fuck yeah comments. They are incoherent but maybe they will help you:

Sakura 9: seems so slow until Rika goes all crazy with sword. After a 2 minute sword fight, Kero tells it’s the SWORD card. No, really?! Lots of wtf moments: 20:18 (Yuki says Sister-complex!) and he also asks Li are you alright like a fag, Also, LI is a fag too (:20 seconds before the end). Episode 10: best anime ever! Best reaction faces! Sakura is forced to dance randomly with flower girl.

CCS episode 12: Very fuck year! When Li gets the tiem card, his face 21:40 yells GAR

Best anime: episode 13: Powerturns out to be a small cute thing. And then ELEPHANT helps Sakura play tug of war. Best shit ever. Li using TIME (fuck year, he got the goods) to win!

Sakura 14: WTF moments everywhere and cutest couple: bro and chick. (toya and yoko?). Everyone is fag for Yukito. REMEMBER THIS EPISODE FOR YOKO WHO WAS REJECTED

15: around 6 minutes, Sakura is in monster form. Hilarious. Very emotional past half way mark. Emotional when bro is nice around 15:30

17: at 3:40, Sakura’s face is priceless. BUT HOLY SHIT. SCARY EPISODE IS SCARY. 21:50 is proof of li’s faggotry

ccs 22- feels good near the end with baww and father askin Sakura for help. “I need a skillful assistant” and how her face brightens up. Kero says cards can’t mix everything: BULLSHIT. There are THREE flying cards (fly, float, and move). Cards for everything

23- Kuro says “Let’s put that thought aside” THREE fucking times. Kickass

Ccs 25- IT GET SERIOUS. The cards are fighting back and it’s a bad ass episode. Very dark and climatic

Ccs 26- interesting the entire episode. Getting even more serious

Ccs 27- leading up to epicness with ‘evil’ teacher. Also, girl talk (Li and Sakura) about Yukito’s sexiness. The epic faggotry reeks of greatness. Question: kero was able to determine a card that swallows Sakura to be the RETURN card, yet he can’t tell the name of the most obvious cards… isn’t that strange? The card is pretty complex to figure out. Otherwise, very enjoyable episodes.

Cc2 28- more epicness with SHOT Card.
29-everyone is so hyped up about if Yukito will like their cake and of course he does. Meilin (Chao from Negima) is so cute in this episode. 13: 20 or so, Li busts in and stares and then walks out. Creepy music around that teacher

ccs 34- Yukito (from being fag to GAR) is just cool as fuck. I came when he was so nice to Sakura and was so smart. Hot music at 12:00 (on iPOd I think). Yukito is so happy about getting a motherfucking pen! He’s so badass

35-Yamasaki waves for an hour at 5:00. Pathological liar WIN! 5:45 around: she freaks out. 8:43 (what the fuck moment) accepted on a date before EYECATCH, super cute. A little before 13:00, army march Li. Toya is fucking everywhere with every job. Its hilarious. TOYA’S FACE AT 14:20, OWNS ALL. But Yukito’s food binge is nice. Kickass battle. Kero upgrade. 20:20. I LOVE YUKIO. Special end for Christmas

Ccs 38: 22:42 andto the end is hilarious!
Ccs 39- 12:02 BEST REACTION FACES. Big brother knows fuckign everything at 17☺0. Proves that sakura’s reflection is hotter than her.

Ccs 40: 3:13 and on is a song with lyrics. Good. Seriously, first 5 minutes are worth seeing over. Yukito and touya ARE EVERYWHERE> I love it though. It’s a very plot important chapter and seems to run through entire series and foreshadow

41; 9:40 nice song 17:30 sakura kiss. End is very strange with teacher and the music

42- school play: sakura is badass and its enjoyable. Very cute and Sakura-prince is handsome. Unfortunately it ends with a shitty plot device of believing in yourself and not intelligence. The very end seems very mysterious with kero chan hinting at Yue and teacher and scary music

43- 10:20 random girl sings OPENING! Hahaha, nice. And meilin left! I’ll miss her and her co fight with li

45- end of card capturing. EPIC EVERYTHING. Not overly exciting but lots of changes in plot. Yukito being Yue! 21:12 Syaron’s epic scream!

Ccs 46- depressing for a bit but a great conclusion to this arc. Ending is a flashback of all episodes. Seriously, yukito is the most amazing character in the world: monster, gar dude, gay, maker of gays, etc

47- british fag and some cute chick

48- around 8 minutes, girl releases her sexy and dark voice!!

50- around 14, tomoyo releases lesbianism. We learn about bad guys at end.

Ccs 52- 11:40 sakura sings an opening
54- 19:20 (Heart touching present giving. Makes me feel bad if I was ever mean to someone who gave me a present)
55- 2nd half is alice in wonderland (kero = queen)
56- evil chick is so cute at 4:15! Beginning of 2nd half is hilarious with plush toy talk. Very funny. Great reaction at 22

57-great art and song during beginning of 2nd half (Shows translation of syaron’s song)

Css 58- bad plans mr. Eriol. Prevent them from going into weak state? Why (lots of bad plans)? Also, kero goes crazy at 12:30. Around 18, we find out yue loves Clow: too much faggot love. 20;30 IS GREAT MUSTIC

ccs 60- tomoyo pretty much tells meilin chan to go out with her when li dumps her
61- entire episode, toya is so fucking cool but especially 17:50
64- around 12, Sakura is so cute when she answers Li who is talking to himself. Wat eriol says at the very end Is cute
65- halfway, Yuki and Touya epic moment. 15:45 is epic toya face. Toya confession. A great moment; Giving up powers to help Yuki. Sakura finds out. A very AWWW moment/episode

66- Yukito is SO cool about Sakura’s confession
70-sakura makes a card: sad episode but wicked nice end…I’ll miss this fun series. Great ending

Similarities to Negima:
Negima= ccs
-loop card
-premise of card
-chinese martial arts
-wings
-circles for magic
-like the older and cool teacher
-yue (name)
-art of meilin= chao (both Chinese)
-large breasted woman from negima = mizuki sensei
syaron- negi (chinese martial arts) [relation to meilin/chao]
-tactical/obsessed pet: Chamo (perv)= kero (food)
-spell in air (same symbol)
-yue’s evil plan succeeds and Sakura is in the future. She is able to return to the past to fix things/negi has the same: failure, returns and succeeeds
-cards are contracts
-eye catch =pactio card
-cosplay
-release- adeat
=episode 48, sakura holds card like negi holds card
-evangeline’s string control and brit kid does the same

Pani Poni Dash anime

2009-04-21T07:44:00.000-07:00

A lot of people love this anime. I watched it and was fairly disappointed.

First few episodes were great and they were funny. But even back then, there were problems:
-random references that you had to be a master of Japan to get
-boring stories in each episode

But at least the characters were interesting. But as the series progressed, I came across SAD stuff, not funny stuff (especially Mesosa the rabbit). Sometimes it wasn't even attempting comedy, and was just being slice of life (though much more crazy). Great music though and Rebecca was cute if you are into that kind of thing.

But, in the end, it was overall not funny, boring, and even the characters started to develop annoying personalities (Especially the class rep).

And I noticed something: Negima?! is basically PPD Season 2.

Same art style, Paru and Rei look too much alike (especially hair. Paru also seems to have an ahoge), common monster (green toad thing), similar display of emotion, cartoon on a stick animation, same archeologist outfits, and a rosy blond. Also Baka Rangers from Negima have the same outfit from PPD episode 23 (despite the manga not showing them having any sort of outfit). Also, similar antics in both.

Clannad and Clannad Afterstory

2009-03-29T20:36:00.000-07:00

A great series. Too much depressing scenes but if you want a cry, KEY is your man. Clannad is probably my favorite KEY work for better women than Kanon (though Kanon's protagonist was better).

Even if you hate KEY, there are reasons to see this show: Akio, Ushio, and Sunohara/Tomoya hijinks. You might even like the females! Only problems is that every character gets the same rushed through storyline forcing drama upon you AND I do not like the Nagisa storyline much. Also, the end of Afterstory is confusing to most. If you really want to understand, play the visual novel.

Overall, a funny and interesting show. It envokes emotions and makes you get all hyper. Not a bad series to see.

Akikan anime

2009-03-29T20:31:00.000-07:00

I just finished episode 12, the last episode of this series (OVA coming out later). I must say: it was fun but too short. Let's start with what's wrong: boring storyline, ugly and annoying females, and terrible animation. Usually that's what kills a series but:
The males are hilarious. Seriously, one of the funniest shows I've seen. In fact, all those negative qualities serve to make this series more fun. While the battle scenes are too serious and detract from the series, luckily they are few. In the last fight, the fight is actually pretty interesting. Thankfully, every scene can be made funny.

This series is watchable for its use of Kakeru, Otoya (gay guy), and Gigolo: all hilarious guys. Mizu is freaking cute as hell and the lesbian is a nice touch too. Other characters are cliched but acceptable. Enjoy this series that's funny but with some annoying serious parts and terrible QUALITY issues. Still worth a see. I hear the manga is vastly different.

Toradora episode 25

2009-03-27T14:26:00.000-07:00

While the past 2 episodes seemed rushed, this one seemed to drag a little. Maybe it was normal and I was just comparing to the ones before, but it did kinda seem long... I don't know why they had Taiga run away and come back in the same episode. Why follow the novels (unlike what you did before) if it didn't have any impact on the audience because of presentation? What, we are supposed to believe it showed Ryuuji's determination? Yea right. It was an okay last episode though it didn't do anything amazing, but nothing bad either.

Ending was lack luster. So he said "i love you"...okay and? Most series end and make you wanna clap or feel empty. I feel neither with this series. I will be fine to never watch this again. Only thing that interested by was the teacher's speech on leaving our friends but when I resaw it, it wasn't as good as I thought.

Overall: Toradora brings nothing new to the plate. If you are well versed in anime and western literature, it should be everything you've already seen with nothing original or interesting. In fact, it seemed to be missing parts of the typical storyline. Whatever... it was okay. Miniron's Voice actor was good when doing other people's voices but that's it.

Toradora episode 23 and 24

2009-03-20T14:44:00.000-07:00

Long time, no post. I've been keeping up with the modern anime: akikan, clannad, and toradora. All are good series but somehow toradora has come to piss me off. This series is a strange form of ecchiless harem. It was an interesting series from episode 1 to maybe 20 with little over dramatic crap. Minorin's VA (when doing other voices) was AMAZING. Kitamura was an amusing character to watch and he made me laugh. But what I want to talk about is the newest 2 episodes which made Toradora drop in its quality.
Perhaps the novels do a different and better method but I want to focus on the anime. First thing: inconsistent characters. This series did what Hayate the combat butler did and made it 10 times worse: it brought good characters and made you hate them. The class president was interesting, independent, and tough. But BAM!, end of her episode showed her to be an annoying cry baby. This happens with all the characters. Minorin goes from cute to bitch violent slut. Ami goes from wise guy to fortune cookie advice giver.
Episode 23: Episode is fine, Taiga is cute. But end of the episode, everyone turns on Ryuuji and Taiga. Minorin completely assaults Taiga and yells at her, being #1 bitch. Completely unfriendly and completely evil. Just a terribly inconsistent thought.

Episode 24: Wow, what terrible pacing. From not even accepting the other's feelings to MARRIAGE and RUNNING AWAY?! Oh god... No kissing even. And Ryuuji being mean to his mom? Come on now! She wants you to be happy and succeed; I hardly think her telling you to do college is pushing her failures on you. It's not like she made you a doctor or something.

This is just my major issues. Toradora was acceptable but really dropped in ranks. You wanna be sane? When you see that the next episode is about skiing, STOP WATCHING. Imagine a happy ending and drop the series.

I will continue to watch the other anime.

How to read Ichigo 100%

2009-02-25T19:58:00.000-08:00

The best choice is the following:
-read manga up to chapter 153 (finishing volume 17)
-watch video or search Aya end:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kCqNbpOgg1I

Shinshi Doumei Cross Review

2009-02-11T14:04:00.001-08:00

One of the best manga I have read is this one. The mangaka is amazing. The first novel I read by her (I don't remember her name, okay?) is Full Moon wa Sagashite. It seems like a funny like romance comedy...until everyone DIES!!!! It had a much darker theme but still kept the humor. But then towards the end it went crazy with betrayal and action. It was good...I love that kind of twist when its appropriate (TRC made me revise this statement...its transformation was terrible).

But this manga is slightly different: Okay, no its not. Full Moon was great till this came out and blew it out of the water. So many plot twists and very juicy storyline. Chick goes after guy but very unconventional. Read it (I won't spoil ANYTHING as its all plot twists).

Scene: 6
Art is a bit of a turn off and there are all these ads/author notes/random crap on every page. Why?! But its always funny, cute, and amazing.

Characters: 8
You will love all of them. Only manga were I accepted a gay couple (just like Negima is the only lesbian couple). You will be surprised about every character. "OMG, this person was actually ...." and so on. Betrayals occur soon enough.

Story: 6
Unique with minimal bullshit.

Overall: 8

Final thoughts: Worth a read even if this isn't your forte. Its only 40 chapters. Ending is the only disappointment as it seems like a copout...especially since I don't see why she picked that guy as well...

Read full moon wa sagashite if you like Shinshi Doumei Cross, Jonathan is amazing (not in anime though).

Lovely Complex Final Review

2009-02-06T14:14:00.000-08:00

Alright, time to finish my review of this.

The series remains a formula for the whole series ever since about episode 8.

Its either:
1. Risa wants to get Otani to like her but he kinda shrugs her off by being mean or embarrassing her.
2. Some Maity-sensei worship but realizes its wrong
3. Attempts at Otani again
4. It fails and he is either stubborn/stupid or doesn't answer.
5. "I hate Otani. I'm giving up on him." [episode end] It leaves you on a cliffhanger
6. The next episode isn't exciting and everything is back to normal again.

OR
1. Oh, I love Otani
2. He considers me his girlfriend? OH YAY! He says some nice stuff
3. What episode is about to end? Quickly flash a conflict (ex-girlfriend, girl neighbor, some guy, separation because of college, or break up).
4. Problem is easily resolved and no one cares.

Those are the two formulas of this series. But what makes this show apparently unique is that it is about to freaks (one tall and one short). But this show SHOULD be about Nakao and Nobu-chan, because they are funny and they are a cute couple. Seriously, Risa cries and Otani is always angry. People call them cute but they are both pretty dumb (though funny occasionally). But Nobu chan and Nakao are funny, interesting, and just make a scene great. But of course they also get captured in the end of the series resolution shit: The series tries to show what will happen to them in the future and give them their own episode. I must say, theirs is very funny but I will never like those episodes devoted to one character just to give them a resolution. But of course, Risa HAS to take the limelight by crying when its about Nobu-chan and not her. But proof of Nakao's greatness is: "I have THREE women!" which is his faux-harem he made out of guys. I'm surprised he didn't use the tranveiste instead of dressing up men.

Speaking of tranveistes: Has Haku become gay? He always hangs out with the transveiste (they never appear separate of each other). I like it better that way because the transveiste is the only good part of this series.

But the other couple must fall into the resolution episodes too (but they only get half an episode because no one cares): Tanaka and Suzuki. Suzuki failed his exam (they were applying to the same college) and now he broke the promise they made. I mean, you can guess what the promise is, right? They promised to go to the same college (obviously right?). Well, they have to have a flashback that shows the stereotypical gang-flirts (you know, a group of guys surround a shy girl and ask her simple questions which are interpreted as sexual threats). But why?! Anyone can guess what the promise was...in fact, the flashback doesn't say anything. So that episode fails.
The rest of 23 is pretty weird as Otani says weird shit. But back to the other couple. Tanaka puts on glasses for the first time (its quite moe) and no one mentions it. Its just...there. WHY?! No one seems to realize it and neither does she. But back to the story: Suzuki does the SAME shit that Nakao does: make her angry so she will hate him and progress without him (you know: so she is better off). Christ, the fact that this happens twice makes me think its saying something about boys: "they will make their gfs angry just to do good for them" or "that love means hurting them so they can get better." Tanaka does ballistics too but thats not explained. This is getting pretty weird.

Overall: The episodes are getting worse (though they have still some humor) as they are the same formula with no change. Watch enough and you will learn the pattern yourself. Most fans are just after Otani and Risa (you strange people) and thats why they ignore the flaws. Actually, Risa and Otani are both annoying and dumb. This series has only two interesting things: Nakao, Nobu, and the transveiste (especially the transveiste. I know traps are common but come on! that was awesome!). Maity is fine but overdone in romantic series.

Is this worth a look? I don't think so. Bad music first off. Art is fine but everyone is pretty normal or bad in design (Risa's face most of the time). Characters are bad except for those mentioned. The good doesn't outweight the boring parts of this series. I sort of tell myself if I did have time, I would rewatch this. But I don't think I will (even if I have time).

So in the end: a series to miss unless you are interested by some light humor, obvious end, and three good characters.

On a final note, the last half of the last episode (24) is pretty good. If you know the basic story (seen it up to episode 10), then its worth watching. Funny, kinda cute, and the end song is done a bit better. So check that out.

Tsubasa Reservoir Chronicles Review (manga)

2009-01-29T12:18:00.000-08:00

Ah, the only manga I have ever read and wanted to put down. That's VERY bad as I never like to stop a series midway through (But thank god its coming to a close). Alright, you can guess my overall feel huh? But let's get this review done.

Story: 3
Okay, CLAMP is fairly stereotypical plotwise. They do romance 97% of the time. However, they used to do super horror/ gothic crap until they found out no one likes it and buys it. So TRC starts off with a kid and his princess girlfriend. They go down to a weird temple and some guy tries to kidnap Sakura (the chick) and she loses her memories in the form of feathers. Fine. Syaron decides to chase after her in hopes of recovering her memory and getting her to love him again (they both clearly like each other). So, to do such, he must cross dimensions to find the feathers. And from a cutscene, we meet to other dudes who are crossing dimensions for their own reasons: a ninja fighter (kuro?) and Fai the mage. That is volume one. It's fairly original and okay. Someone once said "Buy the first volume and that's it. The first volume leaves it to have so many interesting possibilities and so much potential". That's paraphrased but I agree. Its an acceptable love story.

But that's not what happens. Continuing, they go to new dimensions, learn new tricks, and fight. Too bad what they learn in one dimension serves no point in the next, so they aren't changing. But its a good way to keep things original. However, it sounds just like a jumble of short stories thrown together. The story is mediocre at best and there isn't that much excitement. Then they go to New Tokyo, a post-apocalyptic Tokyo. This is where the story goes weird and bad. We find out that the real Syaron is in a tube at the main bad guy's lair and this guy currently is just a clone. Through some weird logic we find out how they share the same memory and personality. The clone goes ballistic and eats Fai's magic eye and goes berserk slashing everyone. He escapes and the real Syaron joins the party. You should be confused but I might just be good at explaining. While I love the strangely dark chapter and the intense action, its not appropriate. If you want to change from romantic manga to action thriller, do it gradually. Don't just throw that shit out at us unprepared because we feel cheated. Its a cheap trick, CLAMP. And the rest of the manga makes no sense: the Sakura they are carrying around is killed but its ok, its a clone too. Fai and Kuro meet their past and their weird ties to the main baddie and it makes shit sense and no one cares. But finally, they are going towards the main baddie's lair but the real Syaron has to explain HIS backstory with Sakura. IT MAKES NO SENSE AND IS A WASTE OF SPACE.

Finally, there is a scene were Fei Wong (the baddie) is slashed but its just some other guy and Fei Wong is right behind them and AHHHH! IT MAKES NO SENSE! Plotholes everywhere!

Characters: 4
I don't care for any of them. Fei and Kuro were kinda cool but come on, its not funny when they pretend to be daddy and mummy. Why? Because I just don't get them. If I understood them, I would think its a cute concept. But its not done right at all. And these crossovers? They are not. CLAMP just cant make new characters or personalities. They...just..can't. 4 girls can't do anything original.

Scene: 2
Most chapters and scenes suck. The current (Fei Wong's final battle I assume) and that ballistic chapter were pretty good but only the first was done well. The genre changing one was just random and crap.

Overall: 3

There is no one who would want to read this Its terrible unless you cannot think and just want to say "AWW. I luv Fai and the Ninja! <3". No offense to fan girls but your only Japanese word or only reaction better be kawaii if you want to survive this shit.

Lovely Complex [episode] Review

2009-01-28T15:09:00.001-08:00

I haven't finished it yet but here is my overall thoughts.

From episode 1 to 16, it is overall an okay series. It has funny parts and is VERY original but I find myself forcing myself to watch it and complete it. Its kinda boring.

Story: Not too original. Girl likes boy and wants to make him like her. The originality is that she does tell him fairly early but the way she gets to that point is VERY cliched. Score: 5/10

Characters: A bit more unique. A tall girl and a short boy. I find that both funny and original. Nobu-chan interests me sometimes with her humor. Everyone else isn't important. Maity-sensei is the most cliched of all in this series and even plays the cliched role of new target. Haku would have been the cliched childhood friend who wants Risa to fall in love with him but backs down (he plays a good role now; popping in for jokes). There is that blond chick who also is unique. You think she is going to be Risa's rival (much like Haku would be Otani's rival) but luckily neither do that. The blond is a guy (AWESOME!). Score: 8/10. The only cliche isn't even that bad.

Scene (episode for this case): They follow the same set up over and over (set up [maybe from last episode] and most of the interscenes are the same thing. How many basketball games or Maity-sama club scenes do we need? They do the same thing over and over and over. Luckily, Otani keeps rejecting Risa giving us some originality. Scene: 5/10. Scenes are fine the first time you see them but they repeat.

Overall: 4/10
Wow that's low (maybe 5/10) but yes I find this overall quite boring. Humor is good and the episode sometimes makes you hyped up for the next episode. But the following episode always does nothing. Truly, episode 5 was the best for destroying my expectations with the boy transveiste. But here is an example for the other episode. Risa is rejected! Oh no! What will happen next time? Next episode: cries and acts similarly as before. Another example: Risa gives up completely on Otani. Next episode: acts the same as always and so does Otani.

That's it guys. An occasionally funny but overall boring anime. I'll finish it and add an update if it changes my mind.

School Rumble Review

2009-01-07T17:59:00.000-08:00

Story:
Guy wants girl, girl wants someone else. Typical storyline. Mr. Sunglasses wants to be a mangaka too. With some interesting character and twists, it's an interesting manga.

Story: 8
It HAS a story. But too many chapters seem retarded. But there are some great sub arcs (mini plots) that really make this a great manga. Only problem: Way too long. The story just...never ends. And there are very few progressions to the plot but there IS, so that's a major THUMBS Up for me :).

Characters: 6-7
Some characters are great, like Mr. Sunglasses-even-at night. That foxy sister of the lead girl is good too. Lead girl is retarded, ugly from time to time, and a loser. How can she think that guy she wants (I don't remember his name) will like her stupid ass. But that weird quite guy she likes is cool and it turns out he DOES like her. So that's interesting. The blond chick was interesting but went down in my mind. She has an interest plot behind her and it SHOULD have been played out more and it kinda was. I expect more of it though...or expected as that storyline seems to have died. It just didn't get dark enough for me... Oh yea, there are characters to hate: Imadoki and that large breasted girl he was after (she was originally good but she shot down). And then there is this girl who cheating on her boyfriend. She seemed ok but she is CLEARLY cheating and I am hating that because the author doesn't make it clear enough for us to get it. I know that makes no sense but I am watching her >.>

Art: 6
It could be better and its not always great. But its fine.

Overall: 7

Final thoughts: Overrated and too bloody long. I wouldn't buy it because stupid Del Rey does it and they suck at everything they do nowadays.. Also, the story is ok but not worth your moneys. Some people are obsessed with it so maybe there is some inner good? Oh, it IS good, I won't lie but not the best. But for the most part, it DOES make use of its potential and for that I am happy. I hate manga that have great potential but don't use it (Tsubasa Reservior Chronicles, Hayate the Combat Butler).

Hayate the Combat Butler review

2009-01-07T17:35:00.000-08:00

Alright, I read the manga of this (I usually do) and I feel its pretty good. Story is about Hayate who works as a butler for Nagi. They do all kinds of silly and pointless things. It's geared towards preteens and under, though I guess others could enjoy it.

Art: 7
It's fine and good quality. The characters are all too much the same though design-wise. (I am talking minor characters. There are 3 minors particularly that all look alike despite 2 being boys and 1 being a girl).

Story: 6-8
Uh. That's my first word that comes to mine. It had a great start and I thought it would be sort of actiony later. I mean "Combat butler"? But sadly, no. It was pretty...plotless for most of the beginning though it was completely fine and interesting. It was funny from time to time and was original! Then, there comes a chapter that seemed very good. If Nagi cries, she loses all her money. Hayate now has to protect her from criminals and kidnappers. I thought "yes, some combat!". Well, I became disappointed. There were scenes with kidnappers but not interesting at all. There WERE interesting plot and subplots but no combat what so ever. I mean, fine...that's ok as this is a kid's comic. I excused the fact that all the villains became jokes and were no real threat, just another humor tool. However, the manga stopped caring about a plot completely. You know how many manga have bonus chapters, usually holiday related, and perhaps just to detail a character? YYH had one at the end of the 7 book, for example. Well, this WHOLE manga is made up of those chapters and has the feel of it. Usually, readers skip those bonus chapters when they are reading the manga and want the plot. Well, I want to skipt these chapters except they are REAL chapters. Where's the story? There are many great subplots and interesting plots but there is no real progress. Nagi needs to be captured by someone that actually makes the reader's belief they have a chance (they can still be worthless and funny). Hayate needs to have a real conflict (no violence is needed but that would be good)! So, I feel the deeper story needs to be pushed. Oh you know what? There were these powerful looking butlers that truly WERE combat butlers. If Hayate were to get into a tournament or have to fight and beat them, that would be great. But that requires ACTUAL good action to work.

Characters: 8
That's all this is. The characters are unique and interesting but nothing ever really happens. I keep having new favorites. This more because I get disappointed with the character. Nagi- very cute and interesting at the beginning. However, I started to dislike her personality and she was just getting pointlessly kidnapped. Tama- Very funny, needs more appearance. Maria- I don't like her. She does great things and I feel the need to like her (and sometimes I do) but oeverall she is pointless. Hinagoku- Very great, funny, and cute. Too bad she is showing up less and her personality has getting bland. Hamster- she has grown in my mind as a good character. She will go down I am sure. Hayate- Great but DON'T DRESS AS A GIRL. That kills this manga for boys.

Scene: 9
It's played out well for all intents and purpose. Too bad there is no story to follow up.

Overall: 7

Final thoughts: I am being nice but that's truly what the manga is. It lacks plot despite it having GREAT (i mean it) potential. If only Hayate was really a combat butler, this would be great. But the author feels its more important to have a new story each chapter with no story.

My real final thoughts: Ok, I am being cruel. Its a great if you have patience and go in with a positive attitude. If you want to run through a manga, then don't for this one. Take time and enjoy it. The characters are quite great. Only problem is if they set up a conflict or plot, I expect some sort of finish of it (Like i felt a butler tournament would be good in the manga and apparently the anime directors felt the same and made one!). Just don't hint at something you aren't doing.

A New Book

2009-01-07T12:12:00.000-08:00

Inspiration hit me last night! I was able to create a full story with a deeper thematic story and a create commercial story. Of course, I have midterms (final exams) so soon so I SHOULD be studying but my writer's mind is making me write it. I have to write a chapter a day or I will die.

Review and Guide: Negima Volume Six

2009-01-03T18:00:00.001-08:00

One of the GREATEST volumes in the Negima. It's consistently good!

Volume 6: (chapter 43-53)

Story: Negi must save Konoka from the Kansai Association's mages! No spoilers, just read it.

Characters: We meet the infamous Fate Averruncus. He is perhaps the best known Negima villain (Evangeline is the most known in the anime) and probably 2nd or 3rd popular. We also see Eishun, an ally of Nagi during the war. We finally see Evangeline at her best!

Things to look out for:
-Fate is a western mage (means he is NOT Japanese). All throughout the volume we learn facts like he was hired by someone other than the monkey girl (this is the first implication of a main bad guy/association that exists in the background of Negima; a very tense mood is shown with this). He also uses petrification magic, etc. He's not human. He's from the Istanbul Magic Council (This seems to be important...)
-Negi truly needs to learn how to be a melee fighter and mage
-Eishun (ally of the great Nagi) LOSES to Fate.
-Asuna can nullify magic!
-Asuna could be a good swordsman
-Mana has worked with Setsuna during other magical jobs, meaning she is aware of magic and quite tough (This is something VERY important to note. She is very strong!)
-Kaede and Ku Fei are tough girls :)
-Setsuna was thrown out of her clan because she is half human and demon.
-Eva-chan is a tough mage! Clearly she WAS holding back on Negi and Negi now respects her magical strength (maybe she will teach him to be badass too [hint: she will but not as soon as you think])
-Takahata is mentioned to be overseas. Why? What is he doing? (You'll find out...much later)
-Photo of Nagi's gang
-Eishun talks about a war (a MAGICAL war). You will want to keep notes because this is very important backstory for where Nagi is and what is he famous for.
-Evangeline calls herself the last or 2nd to last boss. Its seems to be foreshadowing that Negi will have to fight her once again.